Running Man Is Not Cancelled... For Real

The Running Man cast will not be hanging up their running shoes after all. SBS, which broadcasts the show, said that its decision to continue Running Man was in response to the disappointment of both Korean and international fans at the news of the show ending. The network had recently announced that the variety show will be shutting down this February after original members Song Ji Hyo and Kim Jong Kook's removal from the show caused widespread criticism among fans. The now-controversial move was to make way for a new format, presumably to save the once hugely-popular show from its ailing ratings. But the team behind the show are now singing a different tune. The creator of Running Man, Nam Seung Yong, said in an recent interview: “Running Man isn’t just a variety program — it boasts 100 million fans overseas. It’s unfair not to reflect their opinions and decide the show’s fate just ’cos of internal problems. I believe the correct path is to make changes to become a better show and give more to the fans. That is why we’re back.”Not only that, but the show, which is in its seventh year, will retain its original six members — Yoo Jae Suk, Ji Suk Jin, HaHa, Lee Kwang Soo, Jong Kook and Ji Hyo. Gary Kang , however, will not be returning to the show.